biomarker

noun

bio·​mark·​er ˈbī-ō-ˌmär-kər 

: a distinctive biological or biologically derived indicator (such as a metabolite) of a process, event, or condition (such as aging, disease, or oil formation)

Examples of biomarker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Researchers believe that dandelion may reduce oxidative stress and reduce various liver injury biomarkers (like AST, ALT, and bilirubin).9 In animal research, dandelion has also been found to reduce liver fibrosis (scarring). —Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 31 Oct. 2024

Previous studies have detected this protein biomarker not only in cerebrospinal fluid but also circulating in the bloodstream. —William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Future research could explore how well these biomarkers apply to additional populations. —Trirupa Chakraborty, Discover Magazine, 25 Oct. 2024

Fluorescent tags are then attached to the biomarkers and lit up with lasers, to calculate the amount present. —Michael Irving, New Atlas, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

biomarker

noun

bio·​mark·​er ˈbī-ō-ˌmär-kər 

: a distinctive biological or biologically derived indicator (as a biochemical metabolite in the body) of a process, event, or condition (as aging, disease, or exposure to a toxic substance)

age-related biomarkers of disease and degenerative change

—Janet Raloff